CHENGANNUR: Reports state that Devaswom president A Padmakumar is likely to resign immediately as he has been facing backlash from CPM and Travancore Devaswom Board follwoing his stands in Sabarimala women entry resulted in controversy. It has been hinted that TKA Nair, who was an advisor to former PM Manmohan Singh or Rajagopalan Nair, former devaswom board president will be appointed following Padmakumar's resignation. Both of them have come forward supporting the supreme court verdict that allows women of all ages to enter Sabarimala. It has been also hinted that appointing TKA Nair will be helpful in reducing resistance from the Congress.

Padmakumar is willing to resign as he has been facing alot of backlash due to his stand in the issue. The board is divided in this matter. However, he has not confirmed anything about resignation. Though he initially said that a review plea will be filed in the court, he had to withdraw the statement because of pressure from the government. He later said that a detailed report on the attacks happened at Sabarimala while the temple was opened for the monthly poojas of Thulam will be submitted to the supreme court. He received large criticism following his remarks and soucres close to him say that he has not even showed interest to talk with the party leadership after the issue.

An audio in which Padmakumar say that he is a devotee of Ayyappa is being spread across the social media. He had also shared a Facebook post put by a Yuva Morcha leader supporting protesters against the women entry. Padmakumar deleted his Facebook page when this led to a controvercy.

Padmakumar assumed office in 2017. The board currently has one vacancy since K Raghavan has retired. This seat is reserved for SC/ST community.